Plastic Surgeons and the Potential for Scarring

Patients almost always ask plastic surgeons about the potential for scarring. They want to know where they will be located and how noticeable they are going to be. They want to understand what can be done to reduce the scarring and how these areas of the body need to be taken care of. It is so important that a doctor be able to clearly communicate with patients about all of these concerns.

What is a scar?

When a person is injured or an incision is made into the body, the two sides of skin come together to reconnect. The tissue created when the two pieces fuse together is called a scar. Scars can be lightly colored and barely noticeable or they can be large and discolored, standing out against the rest of the skin. Because scars are usually unsightly, plastic surgeons work hard to make them as small and unnoticeable as possible.

When do patients get scars?

Anytime the skin is opened up, there is the potential for a scar. When it comes to the work of plastic surgeons, with any invasive procedure, such as breast reduction or liposuction, there is going to be a scar. The extent of the scar and the amount it shows on the skin is often up to the skilled hands of the doctors.

What can a patient do to avoid scarring?

A person's health can be a determining factor for whether or not a scar is going to heal correctly. Aside from the way the wound was closed, a person that keeps up with good nutrition, avoids things like smoking, and has good genes can expect to see less scarring. However, if the wound is not taken care of from the very beginning, there could be problems.

Plastic surgeons often provide their patients with a list of instructions for how to care for their wounds. They explain why it is important not to let the area get too wet and why it should not be immersed in water. Also, there are specific instructions that include limiting mobility in the area of the operation. There are some real problems with wounds that are reopened due to stress and strain. Every time the wound opens back up, there is more of a chance that noticeable scarring will be created.

Is there a way to hide the scars?

One of the skills of plastic surgeons is to hide the scars so that they are not as noticeable to someone that is not looking for them. For example, rhinoplasty incisions are often made at the bottom of the nose where someone might not notice them. Incisions are also often made at the hairline or behind the ears for a facelift.